Iverson ignoring All-Star critics

[NJNJ]

PHILADELPHIA -- Allen Iverson has gone from retirement to All-Star starter.

 

And if his critics don't feel he deserves the nod to represent the Eastern Conference, well, that's too bad. He'll be ready to play the Feb. 14 game at Cowboys Stadium.

 

"The way I look at it is, what should I do?" Iverson said Friday night. "Should I worry about what those people say or concentrate on the million-plus people that voted for me. To me, it's a no-brainer. My fans want to see me play and they have the right to put in who they want to put in the game.

 

"They voted me in, and it's an honor. I don't want to disrespect them by not participating in the game," he said.

 

Iverson, who returned to the Philadelphia 76ers in December, has played only 20 games this season and his 14.4 scoring average was well off his career mark (27.0). The former NBA MVP still has a loyal fanbase and he received 1,269,568 votes to earn a spot in the East lineup with Cleveland's LeBron James, Miami guard Dwyane Wade, Orlando center Dwight Howard and Boston forward Kevin Garnett.

 

Iverson briefly retired after an ill-fated stint with Memphis and his selection sparked criticism of the voting process.

 

He scored only 11 points on 4 of 14 shooting in Philadelphia's 92-81 win over Dallas on Friday night. It was the first time the Sixers won this season (1-6) when Iverson scores less than 15 points.

 

Iverson has been bothered by an arthritic left knee that's sometimes limited his availability. He's been an All-Star for 11 straight seasons, but missed the 2007 game because of injury.

 

CONTINUE READING

[Art]

I want to see Iverson play period.

[Poe]

"The way I look at it is, what should I do?" Iverson said Friday night. "Should I worry about what those people say or concentrate on the million-plus people that voted for me.

 

You should listen to all opinions with an open mind.